NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture

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4 THE REVIEW OF ACADEMIC EQUIVALENCE

4.2 Applicable Competency Standards

4.3 The Process

4.4 Appeal and Grievances

5.2 Applicable Competency Standards

5.3 The Process

5.4 Form of Submission

5.5 Assessment

5.6 Appeal and Grievances

6 FEES

7 NCSA 01 THE NATIONAL COMPETENCY STANDARDS IN ARCHITECTURE

4PREAMBLE

Applicants for Competency Based Assessment (CBA) are assessed in relation to NCSA 01 TheNational Competency Standards in Architecture adopted by the Architects Accreditation Councilof Australia (AACA) in September 1993 (Revised 2001).

The Architects Accreditation Council of Australia is a national body formed by the RegistrationAuthorities of each State and Territory for the consideration of matters of common concern orinterest. The main objective of this Council is recognition, accreditation and co-ordination ofacceptable academic standards and registration practices, in the interest of national andinternational professional reciprocity in architecture.

The purpose of NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture is to establish thebenchmark standard of competence required for admission to registration as an architect inAustralia.

Registration of an architect is the formal act that recognises acceptable standards of

competence and conduct and results in the name of the applicant being placed on aRegister of Architects.

An architect is expected to be competent in the design, organisation and construction of

buildings, which could be undertaken in the circumstances of sole practice. An architect mustalso be able to contribute to resolution of the design, integrated technology and methods ofprocurement of complex buildings.

Because the purpose of registration and certification of the title ‘architect’ is to serve the publicinterest, the standards of competence required reflect consumer expectation of the activitiesarchitects should be relied upon to perform competently.

competencies required for registration, architects are also expected to achieve competence inareas of individual specialisation additional to mandatory registration requirements.

AACA has the responsibility of facilitating the process of competency assessment and themaintenance of The National Competency Standards in Architecture on behalf of the profession.AACA is not, however, a registration authority and can only make recommendations to thevarious Registration Authorities regarding their assessment of competence in respect ofeligibility for the purposes of registration. The decision to register lies solely with theRegistration Authorities while admission to membership of the Royal Australian Institute ofArchitects (RAIA) is the prerogative of the Institute.

AACA endorses the professional responsibility of tertiary institutions for the determination ofcourse structure and teaching methods and supports these institutions in their assertion ofindependence in such matters.

51 COMPETENCY BASED ASSESSMENT

'NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture', which identifies the

standards of performance expected of an architect, is the primary document used in the processof Competency Based Assessment (CBA). (This document is included at Section 7.)

These Standards apply to all applicants for registration as architects in Australia. Applicants fallinto the following three distinct categories:

Category 1 Those with a professional qualification in architecture from an accredited

Australian tertiary institution or other overseas qualification formally accredited by AACA.

An architect must be competent, that is, be able to perform those actions, which are declared tobe necessary by the architectural profession and accepted as such by the community withinwhich the architect operates. These actions have been written as standards of performance -competencies. They are not absolute, they may change as community values shift and as theprofession reflects upon itself: they must therefore be subject to regular review.

The competency standards methodology as evolved in Australia adopts a particular format andset of language conventions. These are defined as the Australian Standards Format. Adaptingthese definitions to the architectural profession, they become:

Competency:

the ability to perform the activities within the profession of architecture to the standard expected in practice.

Unit of Competency:

a collection of Elements of Competency which are sufficiently related to each other to be

considered as a single block of connected activities. Units are groups of activities, which are likely to become the focus of specialisations amongst experienced practitioners.

There are four identifiable Architectural Units: Design, Documentation, Project

Management and Practice Management. All individual Elements are located under these Unit headings.

Contexts:

descriptive imperatives of the professional setting within which the performance is

enacted and within which the Units of Competency are related to the comprehensive process of producing architecture.

Element of Competency:

a discrete activity that a competent architect must be able to perform.

Performance Criteria:

evaluative statements which specify the required level of performance.

73 THE ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE EXAMINATION (APE)

CATEGORY 1, 2, AND 3 APPLICANTS

The APE is conducted in three (3) parts:

Part 1: Eligibility Part 2: National Examination Paper (NEP) Part 3: Examination by Interview

Parts 1 and 2 must be undertaken in the same jurisdiction. Part 3 may be undertaken in another jurisdiction; where a candidate is offered a Supplementary Examination to Part 3, the Supplementary must always be undertaken in the same jurisdiction as the original Part 3.

APE Candidates are required to complete the APE within two (2) years of the date of notification of success in Part 2 of the APE.

Candidates, who are unsuccessful in Part 2, may re-sit at the next or subsequent Examination, without being required to resubmit for Part 1, providing they are sitting within 2 years from the date of first notification of being unsuccessful in Part 2. However, updated Log Sheets and Statement of Practical Experience should be provided along with a Statutory Declaration attesting to the accuracy of all documentation submitted.

Candidates, wishing to re-sit Part 2, after the two-year period has elapsed, are required to provide an updated Log Book and a revised Statement of Practical Experience indicating experience gained since the original submission was made. A Statutory Declaration must also be provided.

3.1 PART 1: ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for admission to the APE applicants must:

(a) be eligible for Category 1 candidature and present certification in confirmation,

OR

(b) have fulfilled all the requirements of Category 2 or 3 and present certification in confirmation

AND

(c) have completed a minimum of two years' practical experience in an architectural

or other approved office under the direction of an architect. 1

1 An employer who is registered as an architect may be the supervising architect; alternatively the supervising architect may be another architect in the practice. Note: If an applicant has gained the required experience other than under the direction of an architect, the applicant will be required to provide, in addition to a Log Book and Statutory Declaration, an expanded Statement of Practical Experience providing an adequate description of the experience obtained.

8 (d) have gained one of those two years’ of practical experience subsequent to . successfully completing an accredited qualification in architecture or . successfully completing the National Program of Assessment

NOTE: An applicant who has

. seven years’ practical experience within the last 10 years - including three years in an architectural office under the direction of an architect – one year of which must be in Australia, AND - including 3000 hours of logged experience at the prescribed levels in the seven Prescribed Elements of Competency may elect to apply for the APE upon successful completion of an accredited qualification in architecture from an Australian school of architecture, or upon successful completion of the National Program of Assessment.

(e) have gained one year, of the two years required practical experience, in Australia

(f) have maintained an AACA Log Book in which practical experience for the required period is documented against each of the Prescribed Elements of Competency addressed in the APE

(g) provide a Statement of Practical Experience of a maximum 2000 words describing

experience gained in each of the Contexts addressed in the APE.

3.1.1 The Process

Application for the APE is made to the relevant State/Territory Architects Registration Authority along with a satisfactorily completed Logbook and Statement of Practical Experience. The Registrar of the relevant Authority advises applicants of their acceptance (or rejection) and of the dates on which the APE will be held in their jurisdiction.

The application must be supported by a Statutory Declaration attesting to the accuracy of

all the documentation submitted.

3.1.2 The Log Book

The objective of the Logbook is to provide information to the Assessors 2 , in a reliable

form, which demonstrates that Candidates have satisfied the Mandatory Practical Experience (set out in 3.1.6) for admission to the Architectural Practice Examination.

3.1.3 Statement of Practical Experience

The objective of the Statement is to provide Assessors with information on the

Candidate’s practical experience (which ideally should be certified by the employer/supervising architect), and presented in a logical sequence that indicates the scope of work undertaken by Candidates in each of the Prescribed Elements of Competency. This is in order to provide a basis for Assessors to explore the nature and level of experience in the Examination by Interview. The work of the two years, immediately preceding the Architectural Practice Examination application, should be emphasised.

2 In some jurisdictions ‘Assessors’ might be known as ‘Examiners’.

9 The Statement should be type written on A4 sized sheets (maximum 2000 words) and presented in chronological order of experience.

Where the experience referred to has been gained, with or through an employer, each relevant page of the Statement should indicate the employer’s name, and the supervising architect’s name and registration number.

Where the experience has been gained by the Candidate acting independently, it will not be accepted unless validated in accordance with Footnote 1.

The Statement should be well considered, precisely expressed and be cross-referenced

to the Prescribed Elements of Competency.

Sufficient project details should be provided to allow the Assessors to appreciate the scope of work, its cost, floor area and nature of construction.

The Statement should include an indication of the Candidate's role and level of responsibility in the particular project stage that has been identified. Candidates should select from their experience the projects, or project, that in their view best illustrate the application of the Prescribed Elements of Competency.

3.1.4 Practical Experience

Practical Experience shall be gained in the various categories identified in the

NCSA01/LB Log Book in the practice of architecture, or in a technical capacity on building or allied work, approved by the responsible State/Territory Architects Registration Authority. At least 18 months of the minimum two year period shall be gained in the practice of architecture under the direction of an architect (except in circumstances relating to Footnote 1).

3.1.5 Period of Practical Experience

The required period of practical experience may be the summation of several periods in different offices. Periods less than the full-time equivalent of eight (8) weeks continuous duration, in an architect’s office, or in circumstances set out in Footnote 1 or less than the full-time equivalent of four (4) weeks continuous duration in a technical capacity on building or allied work, will not be credited.

Candidates should have adequate knowledge of current Australian practice gained in

recent experience.

3.1.6 Mandatory Practical Experience – Prescribed Competencies

Candidates are required to have experience in each of the seven (7) Elements of Practice of the following Prescribed Competencies:

Context 2.2 Element 2.2.2

Element 2.2.4

Context 3.1 Element 3.1.2

Element 3.1.4

Context 3.2 Element 3.2.3

Element 3.2.5

Context 3.3 Element 3.3.1

103.1.7 Levels of Experience

Three (3) levels of experience have been identified:

Executive: Defined as experience gained as the principal decision-maker on a

project.

Participant: Defined as experience gained as a team member or operative working

under the instruction or supervision of a responsible person.

Observer: Defined as experience gained by careful observation of procedures and

practices carried out by others.

A total minimum of 3000 hours of logged architectural experience is required in the

mandatory seven (7) elements.

(NB. This is based on the requirement that at least 18 months of the minimum 2 year period be spent in the practice of architecture and is particularly identified as a guide to part-time employees.)

It is acceptable that logged experience may be:

(a) all at Executive level

OR

(b) a composite of:

(i) a minimum of 40 hours at Executive level

(ii) a maximum of 160 hours in each of Elements 3.2.3 and 3.3.1, the only two Elements in which Observer experience is accepted (iii) the balance at Participant level.

3.2 PART 2: THE NATIONAL EXAMINATION PAPER (NEP)

3.2.1 The Objective

The objective of the National Examination Paper is to provide a reliable and valid test of knowledge and application of NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture.

3.2.2 The Process

The Examination takes the form of a one-hour 'closed book' multiple-choice question paper. The Examination is conducted in each State and Territory by the responsible Architects Registration Authority to a time table that is compatible with the Examination program in that State or Territory.

Candidates are notified in writing of the result (‘pass’ or ‘fail’) by the responsible Architects Registration Authority in the State or Territory in which they undertook the Examination. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified in writing of areas of deficiency (competency and topic areas).

It is necessary for Candidates to pass this Examination as a condition of admission to

Part 3, the Examination by Interview.

As the NEP is an externally set examination, AACA is unable to make copies of

examination papers available to Candidates once they have been submitted. Unsuccessful Candidates in the NEP will be informed of areas of weakness.

113.3 PART 3: EXAMINATION BY INTERVIEW

3.3.1 The Objective

The objective of the Examination by Interview is to enable the Assessors, by discussion

with the Candidate, to confirm that the Candidate has demonstrated adequate knowledge and/or experience of all NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture.

3.3.2 The Process

Candidates are examined on their range of work and experience by two experienced practitioners. The Examination may traverse all of the Contexts, Elements and Performance Criteria of NCSA 01 The Competency Standards in Architecture. The purpose of this Examination is to assess Candidates’ knowledge and experience with reference to the documentary submission as well as to NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture. The Assessors will take an overall view of Candidates’ training and ability to deal with situations in a mature professional manner.

The Assessors will decide whether, on balance, Candidates possess skills and abilities that will inspire that trust and confidence, which is fundamental to professionalism.

The Examinations will be conducted as interviews between fellow members of the

profession. The Candidates will be expected to be familiar with topical professional issues and must be prepared to discuss them. Often in interviews the manner of responding can be as important as the content of the response. It is recognised that professional interviews are often tense and Assessors are aware that Candidates may be nervous and inexperienced in these situations. The Assessors will attempt to put Candidates at ease before commencing to deal with the substantive issues in the Interview.

The duration of an Examination by Interview should be generally about one hour.

Candidates will be free to ask questions, make comments or raise issues as opportunities present themselves. They may refer to notes, diaries or other documentation that they consider may be relevant during the course of the Interview.

3.3.3 Part 3 Examination

Candidates will be notified of the result of Part 3 of the Examination by Interview by the responsible State/Territory Architects Registration Authority.

If the Assessors in Part 3 are satisfied the Candidate meets the objective set out in section 3.3.1, the Candidate will be invited to apply for Registration.

If the Assessors in Part 3 are not satisfied the Candidate meets the objective set out in section 3.3.1, the Candidate will be advised in writing that they have been unsuccessful. The written advice to unsuccessful Candidates will include the areas in which weaknesses were identified.

Where appropriate, Assessors in Part 3 may identify unsuccessful Candidates to be

invited to undertake a Supplementary Examination, including the situation where the Assessors are unable to come to a decision on the outcome of the interview. Candidates will be provided with written advice indicating the areas of weakness that concern the Part 3 Assessors.

123.3.4 Supplementary Examination (Part 3)

Candidates do not automatically qualify for a Supplementary Examination by Interview.

Admission to a Supplementary Examination is by invitation only. A fee will apply. The Supplementary Examination will be conducted in the same form as the Part 3 Examination by two Assessors not previously involved with the assessment of the Candidate.

Candidates invited to submit for a Supplementary Examination by Interview will be

required to notify the responsible State/Territory Architects Registration Authority that conducted Part 3 of their intention to accept the invitation. Acceptance of the invitation to undertake a Supplementary Examination must reach the responsible State/Territory Architects Registration Authority not later than six (6) weeks after the notification of the invitation to resubmit. The Supplementary Examination must be taken within six (6) months of notification of the result in Part 3, at the discretion of the responsible State/Territory Architects Registration Authority.

Candidates who are unsuccessful in a Supplementary Examination will have to re-apply

to sit the Part 3 Examination. They will not be eligible for re-admission for the Part 3 Examination for a minimum period of twelve (12) months from the date on which the results of the Part 3 Examination were first notified.

3.3.5 Eligibility for Re-admission

Unsuccessful Candidates in Part 3 in an Architectural Practice Examination will not be

eligible for re-admission to the Part 3 Examination for a minimum period of twelve (12) months from the date on which the results of the Examination were notified. This measure is aimed at encouraging Candidates to gain further practical experience.

Candidates applying for re-admission to the Examination will be required to submit the earlier Log Book and to demonstrate the experience gained subsequent to the date of the previous Examination by the submission of updated Log Sheets. A Statutory Declaration attesting to the accuracy of the documentation submitted will also be required. They will be exempt from Part 2 provided they complete the entire Architectural Practice Examination within two (2) years of the date of notification of success in Part 2.

3.3.6 Preparation

NCSA01/REF/G A Reference Guide for Candidates

Some important aspects of architectural practice that are examinable are outlined in NCSA01/REF/G A Reference Guide for Candidates which should be read together with NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture. (This document is included at Section 7.)

3.4 GRIEVANCES AND APPEALS

3.4.1 Grievances

(a) Candidates aggrieved by any outcome of any Part of the Architectural Practice Examination must lodge their grievance in writing with the relevant State/Territory Architects Registration Authority within 21 calendar days of the date of notification of the result to which the grievance relates.

(b) Candidates must clearly state the grounds of any grievance. Causes external the Examination will not normally constitute acceptable grounds for a grievance or any subsequent appeal.

13 (c) A grievance or any subsequent appeal arising from the outcome of Parts 1 or 2 of the Examination may only relate to procedural matters. A grievance or subsequent appeal arising from the outcome of Part 3 or the Supplementary Examination may relate to the outcome of that Examination and any procedure applied.

(d) The grievance will be referred to the State or Territory Convenor. Where an aggrieved Candidate is personally known to the Convenor a Senior Assessor may be substituted.

(e) Upon receiving a notice of grievance the Convenor (or Senior Assessor where substituted) may take whatever action is appropriate to resolve the grievance.

(f) The Convenor may recommend, to the State/Territory Architects Registration

Authority, that the Candidate be re-examined. Where a Candidate is to be re- examined the outcome of the contested Part of the Examination to which the grievance relates will be ignored.

(g) In attempting to resolve a grievance, the Convenor may consult with, or seek the advice from, the Convenor of any other State or Territory or a person nominated by the National Convenor. Any person consulted by the Convenor must not participate in any appeal process pursuant to paragraph 3.4.2 (b).

(h) Anything said or done by the Convenor and the Candidate, arising from or relating to the resolution of a grievance, shall be confidential and not admissible in any legal proceedings. The provisions of Section 131 of the Evidence Act (Commonwealth) apply to any communication or documentation arising from or relating to the resolution of a grievance and for this purpose any communication or document shall be considered an attempt to negotiate a settlement of the grievance.

(i) Where a grievance cannot be resolved by the Convenor within 14 days, the Convenor shall: certify that attempts have been made to resolve the grievance; certify that those attempts have been unsuccessful; and advise the Candidate, the relevant State/Territory Architects Registration Authority, and the National Assessment Panel (NAP) of the AACA accordingly.

3.4.2 Appeal

(a) Within 14 calendar days of receipt of notice of advice from the Convenor that the grievance cannot be resolved, the aggrieved party may lodge notice of appeal to the NAP addressed to the Registrar of the AACA with payment of any prescribed fee and stating clearly the grounds of appeal.

(b) Upon receiving an appeal the Registrar will forward the appeal and all relevant documents to the members of the NAP of the AACA who will promptly review all the material provided and determine the appeal.

(c) In determining the appeal the NAP will act in good faith and consider all matters of relevance to ensure that proper processes have been applied and may inform itself, in any manner it considers appropriate. The NAP may give such directions as are necessary to facilitate the timely finalisation of the appeal.

(d) In determining an appeal the NAP may:

(i) recommend to the relevant State/Territory Architects Registration Authority that the appellant be re-examined without any consideration of the earlier Examination which is the subject of the appeal;

OR

14(ii) recommend to the relevant State/Territory Architects Registration Authority that the result of the Examination to which the appeal relates be set aside and/or that the result of the Examination which was the subject of the appeal be varied;

OR

(iii) recommend to the relevant State/Territory Architects Registration Authority that the appeal be dismissed. Where an appeal is dismissed the result of the Examination which was the subject of the appeal is affirmed.

Candidates considering an appeal from any decision of AACA should obtain legal advice.The AACA will seek to recover any costs it occurs in defending any legal proceedingsarising from any of its decisions.

154 THE REVIEW OF ACADEMIC EQUIVALENCE (RAE)

CATEGORY 2 APPLICANTS

4.1 ELIGIBILITY

Applicants for Competency Based Assessment in Category 2, who have a provisional

assessment of academic equivalence from AACA, must have this reviewed to confirm the status of their qualification and eligibility for the Architectural Practice Examination (APE).

4.2 APPLICABLE COMPETENCY STANDARDS

4.3 THE PROCESS

The Review of Academic Equivalence takes the form of an interview in the State or Territory in which the applicant is resident and involves assessment of the professional tertiary qualifications in terms of the applicable NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture (4.2).

It is important therefore, that applicants bring to the interview, a portfolio of academic

work as this is a review of academic equivalence, not of work experience.

A panel, comprising a minimum of two architects, acting on behalf of AACA, conducts the interview. Notification of the result of interview is forwarded to applicants by AACA on receipt of a report from the interviewing panel.

4.4 APPEAL AND GRIEVANCES

Candidates may appeal to AACA against the outcome of a Review of Academic

Equivalence. The appeal must be lodged in writing with the Registrar of AACA, with payment of any prescribed fee, within 28 calendar days from the date of notification of the result.

Candidates must state clearly in writing the grounds for the appeal. Causes external to the Assessment will not normally constitute acceptable grounds for appeal.

The National Assessment Panel (NAP) of AACA will review all cases promptly basing its decision on reasons stated by the Candidate, reports from Assessors and any further evidence provided by either the Candidate or the Assessors or both. If the Panel finds in favour of a Candidate, it will either:

(a) ignore the outcome of the contested assessment and call for a re-assessment of the Candidate without charging an assessment fee,

OR

(b) where, in the opinion of the Panel, the evidence clearly warrants it, overturn the result of the contested assessment.

If the Panel upholds the Assessors' original decision and dismisses the appeal, Candidates may again appeal in writing to the Registrar, AACA, within 28 calendar days of receiving the response from the Panel. This second appeal is considered by AACA Executive, the role of which is to ensure due process has been followed and not to re- assess the performance of the Candidate.

Candidates considering an appeal from any decision of AACA should obtain legal advice. The AACA will seek to recover any costs it occurs in defending any legal proceedings arising from any of its decisions.

165 THE NATIONAL PROGRAM OF ASSESSMENT (NPrA)

CATEGORY 3 APPLICANTS OR CATEGORY 2 APPLICANTS WHO ELECT TO

UNDERTAKE THE NPrA.

5.1 ELIGIBILITY

(a) Academic Requirement - Pass in Year 12 or accepted equivalent OR a minimum of

(b) English Requirement - Year 12 standard or accepted equivalence (i.e. an overall

score of 6.5 on the IELTS scale or other recognised equivalent, e.g. TOEFL);

AND

(c) Work Experience - A minimum of 7 years work experience (architectural, planning, building, or other related fields); 3 of the 7 years must be in an architect's office. A minimum of 1 year of the 3 must be in an architect's office in Australia.

A partially completed qualification is not recognised as work experience.

(d) Permanent Resident of Australia.

NB: NPrA Candidates who have been unsuccessful in two successive previous Programs are required to have gained a minimum of a further three years work experience before they will be accepted into any future Program. This requirement applies equally to Candidates who have failed to submit in two successive previous Programs.

Candidates who have officially withdrawn, within the prescribed period, or have been granted official deferment, will be exempt from this requirement.

Where candidature is refused on the grounds of eligibility, the applicant may seek review of the determination upon the submission of additional evidence.

5.2 APPLICABLE COMPETENCY STANDARDS

5.3 THE PROCESS

The National Program of Assessment is centrally co-ordinated by AACA. AACA will

empanel a group of three Assessors from the approved list of nominated Assessors to set and assess each individual National Program. Currently one program is offered per year. Candidates accepted into the program are required to complete a project submission within 6 months of the date of commencement. Submissions must be accompanied by a Statutory Declaration certifying that the work submitted is the Candidate’s in both concept and production. Notification of results is forwarded to Candidates at the completion of the assessment period.

175.4 FORM OF SUBMISSION

Each submission will comprise:

1. Master set made up of

(a) One A4 type-written report; and (b) One full set of A1 drawings – maximum of six A1 size sheets; and (c) One set of the A1 drawings referenced in (b), reduced to A3 size, bound into the A4 report referenced in (a).

2. Copies Three further sets of the A4 report; each of which must also have bound into it a set of the reduced A3 size drawings.

All submitted material is retained by AACA and Candidates should therefore retain a copy of their submission for their own records.

5.5 ASSESSMENT

Submissions received in fulfilment of a National Program of Assessment (NPrA) are

assessed by those appointed by AACA to set the program. The Assessors determine whether or not there is sufficient evidence of achievement of the required standards of competence in the responses made to the applicable Performance Criteria.

5.6 APPEAL AND GRIEVANCES

Candidates may appeal to AACA against the outcome of a National Program of

Assessment. The appeal must be lodged in writing with the Registrar of AACA, with payment of any prescribed fee, within 28 calendar days from the date of notification of the result. Candidates must state clearly the grounds for the appeal and in particular stipulate whether the appeal relates to:

a) the outcome of the assessment, in which case the subject matter would relate to the deficiencies identified by the Assessors;

OR

b) the procedures applied in the assessment process;

OR

c) both a) and b).

To ensure the integrity of the assessment process and to ensure the independence of an Assessor, information as to the identity of Candidates is not provided to any Assessor (either the Assessors who undertake the initial assessment or the independent Appeal Assessor appointed by the National Assessment Panel to assess appeals). Assessments by any Assessor or an independent Appeal Assessor are based solely on the written information provided by Candidates. Accordingly it is imperative that when submitting an appeal Candidates provide all necessary information in writing.

Candidates are advised that:

causes external to the assessment undertaken as part of the program will not normally constitute grounds for appeal. For example, insufficient time, due to personal or other reasons, is generally not considered valid reason for an appeal;

the appeal is not an opportunity to provide further submission of material which

should have been presented in the original submission, or to provide entirely new material;

18 the appeals process should not be construed as an opportunity of gaining, in effect, an extension of time beyond that provided for in the initial submission period. Any written submission in support of an appeal may, however, bring to the attention of the independent Appeal Assessor, material, which in the opinion of the Candidate, may have been overlooked, mistaken or otherwise misinterpreted in the original assessment;

the submission of solicited testimonials from practicing architects on behalf of a

Candidate is inadmissible.

Candidates considering an appeal from any decision of AACA should obtain legal advice.The AACA will seek to recover any costs it occurs in defending any legal proceedingsarising from any of its decisions.

Where the appeal relates to procedures applied in the assessment process

Where the appeal relates to procedures applied in the assessment process, theExecutive of AACA will review the material provided by the Candidate and determine theaspects of an appeal that relate to the procedures applied in the assessment process.

The decision of the Executive in relation to procedures applied in the assessment processshall be final.

The determination of aspects of an appeal that relate to procedures applied in the

assessment process will precede the determination of other matters to which the appealrelates.

Where the appeal relates to the outcome of an assessment

Where the appeal relates to the outcome of an assessment, the National AssessmentPanel will appoint an independent Appeals Assessor. The role of the independentAppeal Assessor is to adjudicate the appeal of an assessment, on the written materialprovided by the Candidate in support of the appeal and the documents relating to theoriginal assessment.

The independent Appeal Assessor will furnish a report to the NAP, which will in turnforward a copy of the report and recommendations to the Executive.

The decision of the Executive shall be final.

196 FEES

Details of the fees, which apply to the above procedures, may be obtained from the AACA WebSite.

207 NCSA 01 THE NATIONAL COMPETENCY STANDARDS IN ARCHITECTURE

The NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture follows.

Competency Based Assessment

THE NATIONAL COMPETENCY STANDARDS

Copyright of this material is owned by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia.

You may print and reproduce this material in whole or part, subject to acknowledgement of thesource, for your personal, non commercial use or use within your organisation. Apart from anyuse as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, all other rights are reserved.

Except as permitted above you must not copy, adapt, publish, distribute or commercialise thismaterial without the permission of the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia.

Requests for further authorisation should be directed to the AACA Registrar, E-mail address:registrar@aaca.org.au

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UNIT 4 PRACTICE MANAGEMENT 19

Applicants for Competency Based Assessment (CBA) are assessed in relation to NCSA 01 TheNational Competency Standards in Architecture adopted by the Architects Accreditation Councilof Australia (AACA) in September 1993. (Updated 2001).

The Architects Accreditation Council of Australia is a national body formed by the RegistrationAuthorities of each State and Territory for the consideration of matters of common concern orinterest. The main objective of this Council is recognition, accreditation and co-ordination ofacceptable academic standards and registration practices, in the interest of national andinternational professional reciprocity in architecture.

The purpose of NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture is to establish

the benchmark standard of competence required for admission to registration as an architect inAustralia.

Registration of an architect is the formal act that recognises acceptable standards of

competence and conduct and results in the name of the applicant being placed on aRegister of Architects.

An architect is expected to be competent in the design, organisation and construction of

buildings, which could be undertaken in the circumstances of sole practice. An architect mustalso be able to contribute to resolution of the design, integrated technology and methods ofprocurement of complex buildings.

Because the purpose of registration and certification of the title ‘architect’ is to serve the publicinterest, the standards of competence required reflect consumer expectation of the activitiesarchitects should be relied upon to perform competently.

competencies required for registration, architects are also expected to achieve competence inareas of individual specialisation additional to mandatory registration requirements.

AACA has the responsibility of facilitating the process of competency assessment and themaintenance of NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture on behalf of theprofession. AACA is not, however, a registration authority and can only makerecommendations to the various Registration Authorities regarding their assessment ofcompetence in respect of eligibility for the purposes of registration. The decision to register liessolely with the Registration Authorities while admission to membership of the Royal AustralianInstitute of Architects (RAIA) is the prerogative of the Institute.

AACA endorses the professional responsibility of tertiary institutions for the determination ofcourse structure and teaching methods and supports these institutions in their assertion ofindependence in such matters.

5GLOSSARY OF TERMSContextual Reference: establishes the scale and complexity for the application of the variousUnits of the NCSA 01 The National Competency Standards in Architecture.A Complex Building: one that involves elements of high rise and/or large span requiringspecialised or innovative structural solutions and/or one of low rise requiring highly specialisedknowledge and exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics: demanding in its orderingand organisation of multiple occupancy and/or special purpose user requirements in terms ofpeople and vehicular circulation; complicated in its spatial articulation; complex in the planningand co-ordination of complex construction systems, materials, building services and fittings;challenging in site configuration and existing features. The impact of a complex building on thenatural and built environment is significant and requires an informed response to the urban orrural context and the physical, topographical and climatic context.The realisation of a complex building requires specialist input for the resolution of structuraland technical design components and special purpose provisions, and the collaboration of anexperienced professional team for the preparation of project documentation and contractadministration. The procurement of a complex building is dependent on an appropriate practicestructure and adequate professional and financial resources for its achievement.A Building of Moderate Complexity: one that involves elements of low or medium rise and/ormedium span, utilises a standard structural solution, is straightforward in terms of both peopleand vehicular circulation, moderately demanding in its ordering and organisation of userrequirements and creative in its spatial articulation. It requires the planning and co-ordination ofconventional construction systems, building services and finishes. The site configuration andexisting features are undemanding and the impact of the building on the natural and builtenvironment is limited.The realisation of a building of moderate complexity requires advice from consultants onstructural and technical issues, a practice structure and financial resources adequate for themanagement of a project of medium scale and an experienced project leader to supervisepreparation of documentation and administration of the project.Conceptual Design: involves the exploration of ideas and options inspired by analysis of allthe given facts, contextual issues and constraints and is informed by precedent and personalarchitectural philosophy. Drawing from a range of ideas and facts and the application ofjudgement, conceptualisation evolves into a Schematic Design.Schematic Design: the Conceptual Design advanced to a level of legibility sufficient to gainclient approval, receive consultant advice and provide the basis for the preparation of areasonable estimate of cost. Client approval at the end of this phase leads to preparation of theDesign Development.Design Development: an expansion of Schematic Design and creation of preliminaryconstruction details. Investigation and selection of materials and finishes, establishingequipment layouts and preliminary design of built in furniture and fittings for client approval.Receive more detailed consultant advice and undertake a detailed cost analysis.Competency: the ability to perform activities within the profession of architecture to thestandard expected in practice.Unit of Competency: a collection of Elements of Competency which are sufficiently related toeach other to be considered as a single block of connected activities. Units are groups ofactivities, which are likely, amongst experienced practitioners, to become the focus ofspecialisations.Context of Competency: descriptive imperatives of the professional setting within which theperformance is enacted and within which the Units of Competence are related to thecomprehensive process of producing architecture.Element of Competency: a discrete activity that a competent architect must be able toperform.Performance Criteria: evaluative statements, which specify the performance required todenote competence.

6UNIT 1 DESIGNContextual Reference – A Complex Building

Generic Statement:

Although listed separately for convenience and reference, the Elements of design constitute asystem, a set of incidents, which are dynamically related. The Elements are given in thesequence in which they often occur, but they may merge, repeat and inform one anotherthroughout the design process and cannot be considered or assessed in isolation.

A design evolves through exploration and reappraisal of a range of ideas and propositions thatlead progressively to the eventual resolution of a coherent design proposal. Evidence of thisprogressive process must be demonstrated in each of the successive stages of Design asdescribed in Unit 1.

Context 1.1 To create a design which is capable of realisation, through the

exercise of knowledge, imagination, judgement and professional responsibility.

ELEMENT 1.1.1 GENERATE A SPATIAL AND MATERIAL CONCEPT WHICH CAN BE

REALISED AS A BUILDING.

Performance Criteria:

1. The concept is based on analysis of and response to the design brief and is devised to satisfy user intent and fit the built purpose.

2. The concept responds to the physical location and addresses the relevant wider issues of urban or rural context and environmental concerns.

23. The implications of physical, technical, cost and regulatory constraints are identified and assessed.

8 24. The process of collaboration in the development of a conceptual design, sources of specialist information and expertise, when to seek advice and how to use advice, are understood.

ELEMENT 1.2.2 DEVELOP A SCHEMATIC DESIGN TO INTERPRET OBJECTIVES

THROUGH A REPETITIVE PROCESS OF HYPOTHESIS, EVALUATION AND RE-APPRAISAL.

Performance Criteria:

25. The program is analysed and priorities evaluated, problems defined, strategies formulated and a theoretical design approach considered.

26. Freehand drawings, diagrams and modelling (physical and/or computer simulated) are used to explore three-dimensional form and relationships in the development of a schematic design in response to the project brief.

34. Agreement of client is obtained to proceed to the Design Development stage.

Context 1.3 To develop a design proposal from an initial concept.

ELEMENT 1.3.1 INVESTIGATE AND ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR AREAS,

ORGANISATION OF SPACES AND CIRCULATION WITHIN AND AROUND A BUILDING.

Performance Criteria:

35. Specific spatial requirements and relationships for building occupancy and functions are determined.

9 36. Internal and external patterns of circulation and access are researched and the implications for design, construction and services assessed.

37. Integration of construction and technical systems into the spatial arrangement is demonstrated through technical drawings.

38. Information and recommendations provided by consultants, specialists and

manufacturers are interpreted, assessed and incorporated.

ELEMENT 1.3.2 CONSIDER OPTIONS AND DECIDE THE DISPOSITION AND ASSEMBLY OF THE STRUCTURAL SYSTEM, CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, MATERIALS AND BUILDING COMPONENTS.

Performance Criteria:

39. Construction systems are investigated, and the advantages, disadvantages,

building standard requirements and cost implications evaluated and consistency with design objectives assessed.

40. The choice of structure, construction system and materials derives from an understanding of structural theory and construction systems and their application to the design of built environments.

41. Physical properties of strength, performance and durability and the visual and contextual qualities of building components and materials are appropriate for realisation of the final design concept.

42. Selection of building materials is consistent with, and appropriate to, the structural and construction system proposed and details of their assembly are technically proficient.

43. The selection of fittings, fixtures and finishes is suitable for the purpose, cost and assembly.

44. Specialists are consulted as necessary.

45. Design intent is maintained.

ELEMENT 1.3.3 ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDING SERVICE SYSTEMS.

Performance Criteria:

46. Active and passive service systems for thermal comfort, lighting and acoustics are suitable for the occupation, function and environmental parameters.

47. Mechanical and electrical, hydraulic and transportation systems are suitable for the occupation, function and environmental parameters and appropriate to time constraints.

48. Specialists are consulted as necessary.

49. Effective integration of technical and mechanical systems and equipment with the schematic design is achieved.

10Context 1.4 To resolve a schematic design sufficient to obtain agreement and authorisation to proceed to documentation for its translation into built form.

Documentation prepared for the construction and contract management of a building project,including architectural drawings, specifications and schedules, must conform with relevantcodes and industry standards.

The compliance of documentation, supplied by consultants, with codes and regulations is to be

verified.

The consistency of all project documentation (in the selection and disposition of buildingelements, components, finishes and fittings) with design objectives and budgetary constraintsmust be demonstrated.

Context 2.1 To communicate information, throughout the course of determining a

brief and throughout the conceptual design, design development, documentation and construction phases of the engagement.

73. Specifications declare the type and extent of work of separate building trades and sub-contractors.

74. Specifications, schedules and drawings are cross-referenced and co-ordinated.

75. Specifications and schedules from consultants are checked for consistency with architectural documentation.

ELEMENT 2.2.4 CO-ORDINATE THE DOCUMENTATION OF THE PROJECT.

Performance Criteria:

76. Architectural and consultants’ drawings, specifications and schedules are checked and confirmed as consistent and compatible with each other, with the design intent and with quality, cost and time parameters.

77. All drawings, specifications and schedules are consistent with the type of building contract and/or procurement procedure which has been selected for the project.

Context 2.3 Before, or at the completion of a building project, to provide for

effective occupancy and as research input for future operational use.

ELEMENT 2.3.1 PREPARE AS-BUILT RECORD DOCUMENTS.

Performance Criteria:

78. Documents are produced which accurately record the location and extent of building elements and services as completed, including changes which have occurred during the construction process.

95. A building cost analysis is undertaken, which reflects an understanding of

96. Client time, costs and quality requirements and limitations are recognised and balanced against needs and priorities.

97. Project scope is clearly defined.

ELEMENT 3.2.4 ESTABLISH RECORDING, COMMUNICATION, PROJECT

ADMINISTRATION AND MONITORING SYSTEMS.

Performance Criteria:

98. Recording and information systems are established to satisfy all requirements of the contract of engagement and to ensure the flow of information, instructions, approvals and agreements in accordance with specific contractual requirements and for communication with the client.

99. The need for particular specialists is determined.

100. The scope of specialist services is specified and briefs prepared.

101. Selection of specialists and fee arrangements are negotiated and client agreement secured.

ELEMENT 3.2.6 PREPARE AND CONCLUDE CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENTS AND

NEGOTIATIONS FOR PROCEEDING WITH PROJECT CONSTRUCTION.

Performance Criteria:

102. Types of construction contracts are recognised and assessed relative to the project and recommendations made to the client.

103. Ethical tendering practices are followed to assist in the establishment of a contract.

104. Tenders are analysed, compared and evaluated prior to selection.

105. Contractor qualifications are evaluated prior to selection.

106. The terms and conditions of the contract are understood by all parties, are negotiated if necessary, and finalized.

Context 3.3 To provide contract administration for the construction of a project.

ELEMENT 3.3.1 ADMINISTER THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT.

Performance Criteria:

107. An administrative process is established and maintained to ensure progressive

fulfilment of requirements of contract documents.

108. Progress of project construction is systematically monitored and compliance with

the contract provisions and budget established.

109. Progress claims, variations and extensions are evaluated and certified.

110. Conflicts are resolved and final instructions issued.

111. Defects are identified and rectification by the builder monitored.

ELEMENT 3.3.2 MONITOR COMPLIANCE WITH CONTRACT DOCUMENTS AND

REQUIREMENTS OF RELEVANT REGULATORY AUTHORITIES.

Performance Criteria:

112. Authority approvals are obtained as required.

113. Project status is reported regularly to the client and any variations to the program, budgets and quality are addressed. 17 114. Final compliance with contract documents by all parties and requirements of regulatory authorities are verified.

127. Specialist consultants are appointed as necessary.

128. Administrative systems and quality management standards are established and applied to facilitate efficient and timely provisions of professional services.

129. All systems are regularly analysed and reviewed.

130. Data collected from empirical observations, from other architects, consultants, government authorities, clients, existing buildings, and technical and scientific literature is assembled for storage and retrieval.

ELEMENT 4.1.3 DEPLOY AND MANAGE STAFF.

Performance Criteria:

131. Criteria for staff requirements are developed in accordance with identified needs.

132. Staff responsibilities are clearly defined and understood by all staff.

133. Personnel records are maintained to ensure efficient administration of the terms and conditions of employment.

19 134. Provision is made for staff to undertake professional development.

ELEMENT 4.1.4 OBSERVE LEGAL AND REGULATORY OBLIGATIONS IN THE

CONDUCT OF AN ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE.

Performance Criteria:

135. An understanding of the legal constraints affecting an architectural practice, as a